Squatters set their arms in CONCRETE in protest against opening of Tesco

There were scenes of chaos today as bailiffs attempted to remove squatters from a proposed supermarket site - including two who had their arms set in concrete.

Police were forced to close one of Bristol city centre's major roads as they struggled to contain the crowd that had turned up to support the rooftop demonstrators.

The squatters invaded the building six weeks ago to protest against plans to turn a former comedy club in Bristol into a Tesco Express.

More than 40 officers from Avon and Somerset police including dog handlers and a mounted unit were called in to deal with the situation.

Demonstration: Police were forced to close the road to remove squatters from a building owned by Tesco

Break-out: Workmen free two protesters from a bucket of cement on the roof of the proposed Tesco supermarket

They closed part of the A38 from 10am until 3.30pm as bailiffs tried to remove two remaining protesters - with their arms in concrete - who were refusing to leave.

Earlier, a man who was apparently stuck by superglue to a large metal tripod was removed as around 300 people gathered in the road to cheer them on.

Some of the protesters threw paint and water from the top of the building as they refused to leave.

Bristol City Council had previously approved the change of use for the building, which used to be owned by Jesters Comedy Club.

Opponents have said they do not want the area to lose its local character and fear smaller shops will find their businesses will close.

Show of support: A crowd of 300 people gather to cheer on the protesters

Angry: Some of the demonstrators threw paint and water from the top of the building as they refused to leave

A Tesco spokesman said: 'We're keen to invest in the area. Many local people we've spoken to tell us they are eager to see a Tesco Express at this site.

'Our store will create approximately 20 new jobs and provide shopping facilities for hundreds of local residents.

'The squatters, who were illegally occupying the building, were asked to leave but refused.

'High Court enforcement officers are removing them from the premises with the support of the police.'

Superintendent Ian Wylie from Avon and Somerset Police said: 'Police attended the eviction at the old Jesters building on Cheltenham Road to keep the peace and assist Tesco and their court appointed enforcement officers.

'We were keen to cause minimum disruption to the public throughout the day but unfortunately had to close a section of Gloucester Road to protect protesters and passers-by. As always public safety has to be our number one priority.'

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Protesters set their arms in CONCRETE to demonstrate against opening of Tesco